Trudy Jacobson Presents Great American Women of History: Annie Londonberry

Annie took the bicycle craze of the late 1800s to new heights by being the first woman to circle the globe on a bicycle, an incredible achievement that resonates with women today.

In the late 19th century, amidst the backdrop of societal constraints and gender expectations, one woman defied the odds and embarked on a journey that would cement her place in history as a symbol of courage, resilience, and independence.

That is Annie Londonderry, and her remarkable story continues to serve as an inspiration to American women everywhere.

Born in Latvia in 1870, Annie immigrated to the United States with her family at a young age, seeking refuge from the political and economic turmoil that gripped their homeland. Settling in Boston, Massachusetts, Annie embraced the spirit of opportunity and freedom that defined the American Dream.

Annie found herself confronted with the suffocating limitations of societal expectations. As a woman in the Victorian era, her aspirations were stifled by the rigid confines of gender norms, relegating her to the roles of wife and mother with little room for individual expression or ambition.

“Women were confined to specific roles back then, and some of that still carries over into today. Which is why we need to retell Annie’s story here,” Trudy said.

The Bicycle Era

But Annie refused to be limited by the narrow confines of convention, rejecting the notion that her destiny was predetermined by her gender. Inspired by the burgeoning bicycle craze that swept the nation, she saw in this transportation an opportunity to break free from the shackles of tradition and forge a path of her own choosing.

In 1894, with little more than a bicycle and determination, Annie embarked on a daring quest – to become the first woman to circumnavigate the globe on two wheels. Armed with little more than her wits and indomitable spirit, she set off into the great unknown, her journey a testament to the power of human resilience and the pursuit of adventure.

Annie pedaled her way across continents, facing adversity and triumph in equal measure. Along the way, she encountered a myriad of challenges – from treacherous terrain and inclement weather to societal prejudice and cultural barriers – but through it all, she remained undeterred in her quest to make history.

“Cycling across America is an incredible feat, even today. Annie cycled the globe in 1895! That is why she is so inspirational,” Trudy said.

A Source of Inspiration

Annie’s journey captured the imagination of people around the world. With each passing mile, she shattered stereotypes and defied expectations, proving that the limitations imposed by society were nothing more than illusions in the face of human determination.

At a time when women’s rights were still in their infancy, she dared to dream beyond the confines of convention, inspiring generations of women to defy expectations.

Today, Annie Londonderry’s legacy lives on as a beacon of inspiration for American women everywhere. Her courage, resilience, and determination serve as a reminder that no dream is too bold, and no obstacle too daunting, for women who dare to believe in themselves and their abilities.

Who is Trudy Jacobson?

Trudy is an entrepreneur and leader. Her path to success and entrepreneurialism started in the trucking industry decades ago. She encountered numerous obstacles in the male-dominated industry- like discrimination. She was even defrauded out of a lot of money by an unscrupulous, opportunistic person. Despite all that, Trudy always fought hard and pushed forward. Once she realized she could do anything, she started her own company and excelled. Now she empowers other women to do the same and to learn from her experience. Trudy now highlights their stories for the world to see in the Great American Women Series. Trudy wants women everywhere to know they can achieve their goals.